Hernán Bermúdez denies charges, claims political persecution

Hernán Bermúdez Requena, the former Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection for Tabasco, has vehemently denied accusations of kidnapping, aggravated extortion, criminal association, and forced disappearance. Bermúdez, also known as "El Abuelo" or "Comandante H" and allegedly linked to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, claims he is innocent and that a "political and media persecution" has violated his reputation.

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I am innocent because I never participated in the events I am accused of.

In a letter addressed to the public, Bermúdez, who is currently detained at the Altiplano prison in Mexico State, requested that his legal process adhere strictly to the law and ensure procedural equality. He stated, "My performance was never improvised; it was always subject to legal order, institutional coordination with Federal Forces reflected in the security table, and the trust that the State placed in me."

Bermúdez also questioned the media's portrayal of his case, suggesting that since September 2025, his image has been unfairly attacked by certain outlets. He warned of potential fabricated judicial decisions influenced by external parties seeking procedural benefits through unsubstantiated accusations. He expressed confidence in the Federal Judiciary's autonomy and impartiality to prevent the legal process from devolving into political or media persecution.

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My performance was never improvised; it was always subject to legal order, institutional coordination with Federal Forces reflected in the security table, and the trust that the State placed in me.

Citing principles of the accusatory penal system, Bermúdez stressed that the burden of proof lies solely with the accuser, requiring "solid, compelling, clear, and objective elements." He maintained that without such indispensable evidence, no crime exists, referencing statements made by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. The 73-year-old ex-official asserted that he has upheld a clean reputation throughout his life, built on decades of public service, continuous training in policing, and proven institutional commitment, culminating in his leadership of Tabasco's security secretariat.

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The burden of proof lies strictly with whoever accuses with solid, compelling, clear, and objective elements. Without these indispensable proofs, there is no crime.